Two of the major Republican candidates for governor squared off in a debate Friday night, agreeing on some of the big issues and showing disagreement on others.

Walt Havenstein, 65, is a retired Marine and business leader who was once CEO of BAE Systems. Andrew Hemingway, 32, is a small business entrepreneur and former campaign manager of Newt Gingrich's New Hampshire campaign.

The candidates jumped right into their stances on major state issues, such as decriminalizing marijuana. Hemingway said doing so could be a way of fighting against use of more damaging drugs, such as heroin or the synthetic drug Spice.

"I am an advocate for decriminalization of marijuana," Hemingway said. "That is not legalization."

Havenstein said the focus needs to be on why people get addicted to drugs. He said the solution isn't as simple as decriminalizing marijuana, but he opened up the possibility of it.

"I'm in favor of at least looking at that," he said. "I certainly would consider it."

While both said it's important to create jobs in New Hampshire, they disagreed on what role the governor plays in that.

"I think Andrew and I agree," Havenstein said. "The problem is Maggie Hassan and the problem here is her walking dead economy."

"I don't actually agree with that," Hemingway said. "I don't think the government or a governor is responsible for creation of jobs."

The two are first-time political candidates with a background in business. They had a chance to ask each other questions, and Hemingway asked Havenstein about a tax bill of his from Maryland.

"This has been a cloud hanging over the campaign," Hemingway said.

Havenstein said the bill has been paid.

"Andrew, you know this has nothing to do with taxes, but politics," he said.

They both oppose casino gambling, a ban on handheld cellphone use while driving and the current Northern Pass plan, but they stand apart on abortion.

"I am pro-life," Hemingway said.

"I support a woman's right to choose," Havenstein said.

Havenstein said he would not repeal the death penalty, while Hemingway said he would seek to repeal it, citing financial reasons.

The Granite State Debate was sponsored by WMUR, the Union-Leader and the Institute of Politics at St. Anselm College.

The winner of Tuesday's primary may have an uphill battle against Hassan, who has had a strong lead over either candidate in many polls.